Northern political leaders have begun moves to rebuild regional unity ahead of the 2027 general elections. The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) and the National Political Consultative Group (NPCG) announced plans for a Northern Unity Summit in early 2026 to harmonize political, security, and economic priorities across the 19 northern states.
Speaking in Abuja, NEF Director-General Prof. Doknan Sheni said the forum aims to restore collective purpose reminiscent of the Sir Ahmadu Bello era. He warned that ethnic and religious fragmentation could weaken northern influence in national politics if not addressed.
The summit, he said, will produce a Northern Development Blueprint and advocate ideological voting over sectional sentiments. He urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to rebuild voter confidence through transparent processes and staff retraining.
Sheni also called for closer coordination among governors, traditional rulers, and security stakeholders to tackle terrorism, banditry, and youth restiveness. “When northerners close ranks and treat one another with respect, most of the issues causing disunity will disappear,” he noted.
The proposed summit signals renewed northern realignment and could shape alliances ahead of 2027.
